First Minister Alex Salmond and Scottish Labour leader Johann Lamont have called for calm as the independence debate hots up in 2014.
In their New Year’s messages, the leaders of all four of Scotland’s main political parties said 2014 would be a critical year in Scotland’s history.
Mr Salmond said: “It’s a precious thing to be able to debate and decide our own future through a civic and democratic process.
“Let’s ensure that the debate over the next nine months is a constructive one where we respect each other’s views, regardless of how passionately we hold our own.”
Ms Lamont said: “With some of the world’s best athletes coming to Glasgow for the Commonwealth Games, and a referendum on independence in September, we can expect to be the focus of plenty of attention.
“We all have a duty to show the best of Scotland and shape the debate to ensure it is inspiring for all of those people who yet to engage or been switched off by what has happened up until now.”
Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie said: “Scotland has a shop window to the world with the Ryder Cup, Commonwealth Games and decision on our constitutional future. Rarely will we get such an opportunity to show who we are and how we carry ourselves.”
Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson said: “Next year will be a pivotal year in Scotland’s history, and I wonder how families across the country sitting around the dinner table will reflect upon it in a year’s time.
“The choice is stark. On the one hand is the irreversible break of independence an end to the economic and social union between Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland a partnership that has flourished for more than three centuries.”